Job Description

ABOUT THE GANANOQUE & DISTRICT HUMANE SOCIETY (GDHS)

The Gananoque & District Humane Society (GDHS) is an all-volunteer run, no kill animal shelter that takes in injured, abandoned, or surrendered cats, provides them with medical care and attempts to find them forever homes. Every animal that enters GDHS is assessed and examined by a Vet (if necessary); spayed or neutered, microchipped, and given vaccinations prior to being available for adoption. GDHS respects diversity and promotes equity and inclusion in the workplace. We do not tolerate harassment and/or discrimination.

JOB SUMMARY

Ideal for a motivated V.A. looking to join a dynamic team providing direct care to our cats. Reporting to the Supervising, Senior Veterinary Assistant, the VETERINARY ASSISTANT will perform a wide array of duties in support of GDHS with a focus on animal health and care. The incumbent is responsible for the evaluation of incoming and current animals at GDHS, administering medications as prescribed, cleaning cages and the shelter facility, adoption processing, as well as communications with the public, volunteers, and other staff members. The incumbent will work in a small team setting and must be able to work closely and collaboratively with other staff. This position is physically demanding, requiring attention to detail, kindness, and patience. The benefits of this job are many: lots of hands-on learning, incredible satisfaction of helping animals in need, and the deep fulfillment of being involved, sometimes from birth, in every aspect of the care of our cats through to the adoption into their forever homes.

This Position does require weekend work and GDHS offers premium pay for weekends. We are ideally looking for someone to work 5 days a week, including Saturday and Sunday, with 2 consecutive days off.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Provide care to the cats - calmly and kindly handling cats of various dispositions, in all situations.

2. Observe cats and recognize and report any changes to normal health or behaviour.

3. Administer medications, treatments, and vaccinations as prescribed by veterinarian.

4. Feed and water the animals, ensuring that special requirements and dietary instructions are followed.

5. Clean and sterilize animal enclosures, and the facility in general.

6. Greet the public when they arrive at the shelter and provide appropriate service.

7. Answer and return phone calls/messages and forward messages to the appropriate individual.

8. Check emails daily; responding directly or forwarding emails to the appropriate individual.

9. Train and oversee volunteers, providing guidance and help as required.

10. Maintain office files and health records, and ensure documents are accurate and filed appropriately.

11. Perform administrative duties, including updating Pet Point and other relevant documentation.

12. Assist in adoption appointments.

13. Empty, clean, and sterilize litter pans as required.

14. Other duties as necessary in support of GDHS.

REQUIREMENTS

? Successful completion of the Veterinary Assistant Certification by an accredited college, or currently enrolled in the Veterinary Technology Programme.

? Valid driver's license and access to vehicle.

? Criminal check.

SPECIAL SKILLS

Strong communication skills. Ability to work independently, and cooperatively with co-workers and volunteers. Ability to remain professional, even under pressure and with frequent interruptions. Ability to always project a positive attitude to our volunteers and the public. Attention to detail and accuracy. Organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to adjust to shifting priorities. Office and computer skills. Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and Pet Point are assets. Able to resolve conflict and de-escalate stressful situations. Fear Free training is an asset.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00-$19.50 per hour

Benefits:

On-site parking
Education:

Secondary School (preferred)
Work Location: In person